Response to New Law Mandating Online ID Verification

Rising VPN Use in the UK 

Andrew Smith of the Open University recently highlighted a dramatic spike in VPN activity across the UK. As of July 25, 2025, when stringent age-verification laws under the UK’s Online Safety Act came into force, Proton VPN registrants from the UK jumped by 1,800%, while Nord VPN saw a 1,000% surge in subscriptions. 

This surge is a direct response to government requiring ID uploads, facial scans, or credit card verification to access adult and other sensitive content. Many users, concerned about privacy and data security, are turning to VPNs as a way to circumvent restrictions while safeguarding anonymity. 

Google Trends data also shows VPN-related searches skyrocketing—some terms increasing by up to 10× over the weekend, signalling widespread public resistance to the new rules. 

Why Students Should Care:

• Privacy Matters: These age checks may expose personal data beyond what’s necessary—ID uploads and facial recognition apps raise serious concerns 

• Digital Rights Under the Spotlight: The UK is becoming a testing ground for digital regulation. Public petitions and political debate are already underway, with over 280,000 signatures calling for repeal 

• Real world impact cases: Platforms such as Reddit, TikTok, X, and Discord now require UK-specific age verification, disrupting communities and student forums alike 

Our Message: 

As you engage in research, learning, and online collaboration: 

• Be aware of how these laws can affect access to educational resources and community platforms 

• Consider privacy-safe options—but also scrutinise VPN providers carefully; not all offer the same level of data protection 

• Join conversations about online freedom and regulation—your voice matters in shaping future digital policy 

Schaun is Co-President of Engagement and Advocacy.